Each pressure vessel that we manufacture is per the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code. As a leading ASME pressure vessels manufacturer, our specialty lies in working with a variety of alloys, pressures, & designs to meet your custom requirements.
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Our weld overlay and clad vessels are fully code-compliant. We use our advanced welding techniques to their full capabilities to offer you the finest overlay/clad components and pressure vessels.
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We hold the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) U, U2, and U3 stamps, and have the capabilities and resources to manufacture ASME high pressure vessel to your exacting specifications.
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We specialize in the design, engineering, and fabrication of Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers, including thermal calculations. All of our units are built in strict accordance with the latest edition and addenda of the A.S.M.E. Code, Section VIII Division 1, 2, or 3 and T.E.M.A.”
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Causes and Prevention of Pressure Vessel Accidents

Pressure Vessels are vital component, largely supporting the day to day activities of several heavy industries including energy, metal, mining, power generation, and oil and gas. These air tight containers are responsible for handling, storing, and conveying substances under pressure. In short, pressure vessels for heavy industries are designed to handle high risk activities, which call for extreme care when operating the units.

However, most of the time, careless attitude of people working in the vicinity of pressure vessel invites several cataclysmic incidents. In the past, there have been many accidents reported with disastrous consequences. Although, accidents pertaining to pressure vessels might not be fully eliminated, you can at least take simple measures to minimize the risk and likelihood of such mishaps. This blog provides real instances of pressure vessel accidents, causes of such incidents, along with ways to prevent such occurrences.

Pressure Vessel Accident Example 1

: Pressure vessel explosion at a refinery in Skikda, Algeria on 20 January 2004. The accident claimed the lives of 23 workers, whilst damaging the entire area.

Pressure Vessel Accident Example 2

: Pressure Vessel explosion in a chemical plant in Houston, Texas in 2004. Although there were not many human losses reported, the accident shattered the entire city. A large numbers of workers and civilians injured, whilst damaging many commercial and residential buildings nearby the plant.

What are the Causes of Pressure Vessel Accidents?

According to several studied conducted after a series of pressure vessel accidents, the following reasons were identified.

Faulty design and manufacturing of vessels

Operator negligence

Operating the unit than the specified pressure

Improper installation

Corrosion and cracking

Use of poor quality materials

Improper repair of leakage

Excessive temperature

How Can these Accidents be Prevented?

Pressure vessel accidents can be prevented by:

Designing and manufacturing pressure vessels in compliance with the recommendations of ASME. ASME pressure vessels can be reliable in terms of design, construction, performance, and durability.

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We are a leading pressure vessel fabricator with a reputable industry standing of over 35 years
Since its 1977 inception, Didion’s Mechanical, a family owned and operated business, has charted a strong, stable growth story as an American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) code certified shop. Our focus on quality has helped us build a veritable reputation in the market More »

Autoclaves are beneficial pressure chambers used in medical, chemical, and laboratory industries. They are used to carry different processes, which require non-ambient pressures and elevated temperatures. Read More »